05/09/2023
Concrete Plungie v fiberglass pool: what you need to know
February 20, 2023
20ft x 10ft Plungie Max
Getting a swimming pool is kind of a big deal. Not only is it an aspirational item that adds value and lifestyle to your home - it takes up space in your yard and will very likely be one of the most expensive items you put in your home.
Once your pool is in, it’s not overly easy to change either, so it’s important to make sure you’ve done your research.
When we set out to disrupt the pool industry, we did a whole heap of research. In the Plungie development stages, we looked at all materials and concepts, not just concrete. Plastic, fiberglass, concrete - you name the material and we’ve likely explored its functionality as a prefabricated pool solution.
Of course, our preference is concrete, because every Plungie is made from concrete, but fiberglass has some advantages too. Let’s compare the two:
Price
Fiberglass is very competitive against a traditional concrete pool. That being said, it’s not as competitive against a Plungie because of their precast nature. When looking at above-ground or semi-recessed installation, a Plungie doesn’t require the structural reinforcement that a fiberglass shell requires, saving trades, time and materials.
Engineering
Like traditional pools, fiberglass pools require site and pool-specific engineering. All Plungie shells and the footing requirements have been pre-engineered to cover a range of soil classifications, which saves time on the certification process, reducing overall project timeframe.
On-site involvement and weather disruption
While both fiberglass shells and Plungies are prefabricated, resulting in reduced onsite work and weather disruption risk, a Plungie requires far less complex footing preparation and reinforcement, further reducing trades on site and exposure to potential weather risk.
Durability
While the quality of fiberglass options in the industry have improved over time, fiberglass doesn't compare to concrete when it comes to durability out in the elements. Concrete is not subject to peeling, fading or popping like fiberglass is as a material.
Personalization
There are more options for the size of the shell and the configuration of steps and seating with fiberglass shells, although once installed there are limited personal touches you can make to have them complement the surrounds. A Plungie allows you to add a water line tile, exterior tile, render, paint or clad the shell to seamlessly suit your landscape and surrounds.
Interior feel
The non-abrasive surface of a fiberglass pool is softer on your feet however fiberglass is not as rock-hard like concrete if your kids accidentally drop something and hit the bottom. The interior finish of a Plungie is ecoFINISH, which gives the texture akin to pumice stone, offering enough texture for grip but softer than a traditional pool pebblecrete.
Thermal properties
You’ll often hear that fiberglass pools can be heated faster than concrete pools, but this isn’t necessarily a good thing for you and your early morning swim. Fiberglass pool shells don’t absorb as much heat as concrete pool shells as they are thinner and have a lower thermal mass. This means that your water can be heated quicker, but can lead to fluctuations in your water temperature.
Concrete pools are able to absorb, store and release heat from the atmosphere throughout the day, with reduced temperature fluctuations. This keeps your water temperature more constant, so you’ll have less of a shock when you dive in first thing in the morning.
